To share or not to share: Knowledge sharing in a social dilemma perspective

doi:10.3724/SP.J.1042.2018.02057

Abstract

Abstract:

Knowledge sharing is typical public goods social dilemma, employees in organizations have to face to the cooperative game of knowledge sharing. However, there is still a dearth of research analyzing the characteristics, solutions, and the underlying mechanisms of social dilemma of knowledge sharing. To address the problem, relying on social dilemma theory, we intend to illustrate connotations and manifestations of the social dilemma inherent in knowledge sharing. Meanwhile, combining with research on social dilemma and knowledge sharing, we propose and classify three tactics to social dilemma of knowledge sharing, including strategic tactics, structural tactics and motivational tactics. We further integrate extant practices for facilitating knowledge sharing and clarify the underlying mechanisms by which they can help solve social dilemma of knowledge sharing. Finally, based on the theoretical analysis and literature review, we provide both theoretical and methodological implications for future research on social dilemma of knowledge sharing.

Key words: knowledge sharing, social dilemma, strategic tactics, structural tactics, motivational tactics

CLC Number:

B849:C93

LU Xinxin, TU Yidong. To share or not to share: Knowledge sharing in a social dilemma perspective[J]. Advances in Psychological Science, 2018, 26(11): 2057-2067.

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